Never forget that your safety on the road depends on the good condition of your tires. Indeed, they must be inflated as they should be, which is why it is useful to have an air compressor permanently in the trunk of your car, but you still need to equip yourself with a good device. To help you make the best choice, discover our advice and our selection of the 4 best tire inflators of this year.
Here is our commitment, to make sure that we provide the best user experience and content quality:
You can support us by using our links to make your purchases (at no extra cost to you)! This sometimes earns us a commission which allows us to remain independent. More about us
Our selection
"This cordless air compressor from Michelin really excels at everything. Not only is it powerful, but it's also very easy to use. Just connect it…"
"Powered by a 12V cigarette lighter, this mini-compressor is made primarily of aluminum and is capable of producing 35 liters of air per minute. Powerful…"
"This tire inflator may be small in size, but it has plenty of power to spare. With its 11 bar pressure, 2 nozzles and needle,…"
"This 12V Tirewell will meet the needs of anyone who wants power above all else. With its direct-drive twin-cylinder system, this unit inflates the wheels…"
"In addition to being very robust, this tire inflation device offered by Norauto is also efficient and very easy to use. This 12V mini compressor…"
This cordless air compressor from Michelin really excels at everything. Not only is it powerful, but it's also very easy to use. Just connect it to a tire valve and it automatically adjusts the pressure, and it takes only 3 minutes.
39,96 £ on NorautoThe Michelin 009519 is the typical example of the perfect portable tire inflator. Very compact, it is only 18 x 20 x 8.5 cm for only 1.2 kg. The device also has a handle that makes it even easier to carry and LED lights. For the actual inflation of a wheel, you have to use a 60 cm hose with a valve connector compatible with 3 tips. On the practical side, it really has everything to please you.
Nevertheless, this air compressor is far from being technically inferior. Rechargeable on a 230 V power outlet, its battery offers up to 10 inflation cycles from 0 to 2 bars when it is in its full potential. With its 12 V cigarette lighter output and its 5 V USB output, this inflator can also be used as a battery backup for small electronic devices such as smartphones.
Powered by a 12V cigarette lighter, this mini-compressor is made primarily of aluminum and is capable of producing 35 liters of air per minute. Powerful despite its small size, this device can restore the wheels of all types of cars, including vans and small trucks.
35,14 £ on AmazonThe Mannesmann M01790 embodies German know-how in the tire inflator segment. Despite its small size, this device is very efficient. With an air flow of 35 liters per minute, this mini compressor with integrated pressure gauge is capable of inflating the wheels of trucks and buses. This is hardly surprising given its maximum output of 140 PSI, which is the equivalent of 10 bar.
This device is also attractive because of its ergonomics. Given its compact size, it can be easily stored in a car trunk, especially since it comes with a storage bag. Note that the 4 tips of this Mannesmann M01790 are fixed on valves thanks to an ingenious clip system. It is no longer necessary to screw, which makes it even more practical.
This tire inflator may be small in size, but it has plenty of power to spare. With its 11 bar pressure, 2 nozzles and needle, this device can handle a variety of inflation tasks, including car, motorcycle and bicycle wheels.
80 £ on AmazonThis tire inflator is very popular for its versatility. It can be powered from a 230V outlet or a 12V cigarette lighter. Whether you're at home or on the road, this air compressor will always be there for you when you need it. And because it's lightweight and compact, it's easy to carry (despite the lack of a handle) and store in the trunk of your car.
Note that it is possible to adjust the pressure provided by this compressor. It is adjustable according to the inflation to be carried out. Moreover, as soon as the desired level of air is reached, its motor turns off automatically. This automatic shut-off function is very practical as it prevents over-inflation of tires, balloons and children's inflatable toys.
This 12V Tirewell will meet the needs of anyone who wants power above all else. With its direct-drive twin-cylinder system, this unit inflates the wheels of SUVs, vans, trucks, minivans and campers with amazing ease.
77,96 £ on AmazonThis tire inflator owes its high performance to its dual-cylinder system that allows it to store and release the necessary amount of air you need to inflate your wheels. It is also very versatile. With the 3 nozzles that come with it, you can also use it to inflate sports equipment, mattresses and pool toys.
Note that this device can be powered by a 12V cigarette lighter. The manufacturer recommends turning on the ignition when using it to increase its power. The main reason this model is so popular with consumers is its adaptability. Regardless of the make and type of car you drive, the Tirewell 12V will not fail you.
In addition to being very robust, this tire inflation device offered by Norauto is also efficient and very easy to use. This 12V mini compressor equipped with a pressure gauge and a flashlight has all the essential qualities expected by motorists.
47,96 £ on NorautoThis 12V mini compressor offers an excellent measurement accuracy thanks to its integrated manometer which indicates the inflation pressure in bars. Overinflating a tire is almost impossible with this model. Never mind its small size, this tire inflator is powerful. At its full potential, this device is capable of producing 35L of pressurized air per minute. In doing so, it can reinflate a standard wheel in 3 minutes.
Ergonomic handle, low weight, 4 LED flashlight, 3m power cable... this mini compressor is really made for mobile use. Moreover, its compact shape allows it to be easily stored in the trunk of your car. Note that this device does not produce any noise or vibration when it is activated. This is due to its rubber-coated stabilization pads.
Any specific needs?
The best tire inflator in 2021
The best high-end tire inflator
The best tire inflator for sedentary and nomadic use
The best tire inflator for nomadic use
Your guide :
Rate this buying guide :By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!
| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | TOP OF THE TOP | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
7/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Michelin 009519 digital programmable compressor
|
Mannesmann M01790
|
Black & Decker ASI300-QS
|
Tirewell 12V
|
Norauto mini compressor 12 V flashlight and pressure gauge
|
|
This cordless air compressor from Michelin really excels at everything. Not only is it powerful, but it's also very easy to use. Just connect it to a tire valve and it automatically adjusts the pressure, and it takes only 3 minutes.
|
Powered by a 12V cigarette lighter, this mini-compressor is made primarily of aluminum and is capable of producing 35 liters of air per minute. Powerful despite its small size, this device can restore the wheels of all types of cars, including vans and small trucks.
|
This tire inflator may be small in size, but it has plenty of power to spare. With its 11 bar pressure, 2 nozzles and needle, this device can handle a variety of inflation tasks, including car, motorcycle and bicycle wheels.
|
This 12V Tirewell will meet the needs of anyone who wants power above all else. With its direct-drive twin-cylinder system, this unit inflates the wheels of SUVs, vans, trucks, minivans and campers with amazing ease.
|
In addition to being very robust, this tire inflation device offered by Norauto is also efficient and very easy to use. This 12V mini compressor equipped with a pressure gauge and a flashlight has all the essential qualities expected by motorists.
|
|
|
Type
|
Portable tire inflator
|
Mini portable air compressor
|
Portable tire inflator
|
Dual cylinder tire inflator
|
Portable tire inflator
|
|
Power supply
|
Rechargeable battery
|
Cigarette lighter
|
Mains or cigarette lighter operated
|
Cigarette lighter
|
Cigarette lighter
|
|
Power
|
120 W/10 A
|
140 PSI
|
160 PSI
|
150 PSI
|
About 150 PSI
|
|
Optimum pressure
|
6.9 bar
|
10 bars
|
11 bar
|
10 bar
|
10 bars
|
|
Comfort of use
|
|
|
|
|
|
Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!
We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.
We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.
To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!
This is the most important criteria to consider when choosing a tire inflator. This device should produce enough pressurized air to re-inflate the wheels. The maximum pressure depends on the design of the device. It can be as high as 8 bar, but some models have a maximum pressure of 13 bar. The powerful devices are capable of handling all the types of tires you present to them, which is a significant advantage.
Retain that the performance as well as the efficiency of your tire inflator are inherent to this parameter insofar as it conditions the quantity of air that can be restored by the compressor. Of course, this criterion does not come into play if you choose to use a compressor without a tank. The volume of a tank varies from 25 to 250 L. Generally, the larger the tank, the less the motor triggers which optimizes its longevity.
Most tire inflators operate on both 230V with a wall socket and 12V via a cigarette lighter. This is what makes it possible for you to keep this device in your trunk to deal with a deflation when you are on the move. Nevertheless, some devices work in a completely autonomous way thanks to an integrated battery. If you are interested in this type of tire inflators, don't forget to consider their autonomy and always keep them charged to face any eventuality.
It is more pleasant to use a device that is easy to use. In this regard, you should know that some tire inflators are equipped with a function that allows them to turn off automatically when the necessary pressure is reached. For mechanical models, you should always keep an eye on the pressure gauge to avoid over-inflating a wheel. Whether automatic or manual operation, the presence of a control screen on the tire inflator is more than useful, especially if you plan to adjust the inflation according to the tire.
Portability is essential in choosing a tire inflator. To avoid putting in titanic effort for something as trivial as a tire inflation, opt for a device that is easy to move and store in the trunk when not in use. Make sure the device is fairly compact and has a handle, wheels and a case in which its components are neatly stored.
With your own portable or stationary compressor, you no longer need to go to a gas station to inflate your tires. It's very easy to use, but if you're using it for the first time, here's how to do it:
Checking tire pressure
A deflated tire bends under the weight of the car, as you can see. When faced with such a situation, there is no question: inflation is mandatory. However, it is a little more difficult to spot a tire that is under-inflated. In this case, you need to use a pressure gauge that must be installed on the valve. The pressure reading will determine the amount of air needed for re-inflation. Always rely on the normal tire pressure gauge found in your car's manual or on the side of a door.
Tire inflation
Regardless of the type of device you have, inflating a tire is done as follows:
Remove the valve caps and place them in a safe place. Then, connect the hose of the inflator to the valve and maintain a certain pressure. You will hear the sound of air passing through the tire. As you inflate, check that the tire has reached the correct air pressure using the gauge. If not, add a little more air until you reach what is needed.
Of course, none of this would be possible if your compressor is empty of air. So, before you inflate your tires, you need to activate the motor that absorbs the air and stores it in the tank. This motor will then drive a cylinder that compresses the air to a high pressure level. When the tank is full, the motor automatically shuts off. At this point, the tire inflator is ready for use.
In addition to shortening the life of the tire, low tire pressure results in a loss of grip, which is very dangerous on the road. Even worse, it makes braking less effective. Also note that under-inflated tires are likely to increase your car's fuel consumption.
No matter how well a tire is made, it will always gradually deflate. To prolong its life, you should always monitor its pressure so you can adjust it. Manufacturers recommend that you do this about 12 times a year, or once a month, as a minimum.
It is the most common model in physical stores and on the internet. Very simple to use, this device is used to inflate motorcycle, bicycle and car wheels. It can also be used to inflate sports equipment such as balls, pool toys or mattresses.
Due to its small size, the mobile tire inflator easily fits in the trunk of a car. Generally, it operates wirelessly thanks to a battery while remaining compatible with the domestic outlet and the cigarette lighter.
The single-cylinder tire inflator is distinguished by its 25 to 250 L tank that serves as a storage for pressurized air. Its average pressure is 8 bars. It is therefore more powerful and much more practical than the portable tire inflator.
Since it is also very large, you have to use its handle or wheels to move it. Some models can be hung on a wall with a bracket. You guessed it, the majority of single-cylinder tire inflators can only be used in sedentary mode.
Twin-cylinder tire inflators are for professionals or consumers with huge pressurized air needs. This is the category of device found in gas stations or at body shops. Its huge air capacity makes it more powerful than a portable or single-cylinder model.
With two cylinders operating simultaneously, this tire inflator is capable of injecting air at a maximum pressure of 13 bar. If you're considering installing such a tire inflator in your garage, make sure you have the necessary space.
A tire inflator works by the combined action of a motor and a cylinder. Once the device has accumulated enough pressurized air in its tank, the device is finally ready for use. Don't worry, you don't have to wait very long to inflate your tires, which makes it very practical for emergency situations. As it has a digital display and LED light, you can use it easily when it is dark.
The foot pump is of a rather archaic operation. Indeed, you have to mechanically pump with your foot a kind of tap to produce air. This is easy for bicycle or motorcycle tires, but it can be very exhausting when you have to inflate a car wheel. It takes twice as long to inflate tires with a foot pump as with an electric inflator.
The foot pump may be light and compact, but it's not as convenient as an electric tire inflator. The latter will allow you to add pressure to your tires quickly and without any effort. Just make sure the tank has pressurized air or that the battery is strong enough to handle the job.
For its practicality
Is one of your tires low on pressure? No need to rush to a gas station to get it inflated. Now you can do it yourself with your tire inflator. And you don't even need to find a power source if your device works with the cigarette lighter.
For its versatility
The tire inflator is a surprisingly versatile device. It's not just for inflating the wheels of a car, motorcycle or bicycle. It can also be used to inflate mattresses, toys or balloons. In short, this device has a multitude of uses.
For its simplicity of use
Regardless of how it works, the tire inflator is an easy device to master. Once you've familiarized yourself with its operation, everything should come naturally. The digital display and pressure gauge will help you find and adjust the pressure level your tire needs.
For its affordability
The tire inflator is a device that has the merit of being affordable. It's priced so that every motorist can have one in their home. Even if you are satisfied with a basic device, it is still useful if a problem occurs on the road. Portable or not, the inflator will last a long time since you will only use it occasionally.
For the help it provides in case of a problem
In addition to a spare tire and hydraulic jack, consider a portable tire inflator. You'll have more peace of mind knowing you have all the equipment you need in your trunk to help you out in a pinch. It's less exhausting to inflate a tire than to change it.
In our opinion, the best brands of tire inflators in 2022 are :
Michelin is a French company that specializes in everything related to tires. A few years ago, the company developed its tire inflator, which has multiple uses.
Metabo has specialized in power tools since its creation in 1924. Today, this German company still impresses with the quality of its products, especially tire inflators that are both powerful and design.
Launched in 1960, GHB operates in various sectors that are related to the automotive industry. Despite being relatively young, this company manages to captivate consumers with its tire inflator that is very powerful despite its compact size.
After focusing exclusively on the manufacture of hand tools, Mannesmann gradually turned its attention to hydraulically, mechanically and electrically operated tools. Today, the German firm is one of the best in this business segment, which can be seen in the excellent quality of its range of tire inflators.
Metabo has been specializing in power tools since its founding in 1924. Today, this German company still impresses with the quality of its products, especially tire inflators that are both powerful and design-oriented.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Inflate tires when cold
Remember that you should always inflate your tires when they are cold. But what does this mean in practice? Simply put, avoid adding pressure to the car's tires if it has been driven for more than 2 hours over a distance of 3 km.
Empty the inflator reservoir
Over time, the tire inflator tank will fill up with water that comes from condensation. This can cause damage such as wall corrosion for example. If you don't change the water, the unit may not work. Worse, it could even explode.
Don't overinflate your tires
Overinflating a tire is not a way to counteract underinflation. On the contrary, it will wear it out much more quickly. In fact, the overinflated tire will press harder against the road, which will cause rapid corrosion of the center of its tread.
Maintain your tire inflator fittings
It's all about making sure the fittings are tight to prevent wasted energy. So remember to inspect the condition of your tire inflator's hoses and nozzles.
Always inspect tire pressure before inflating
There's no point in inflating a tire if you have no idea how much air it needs. So before you even take out your inflator, use your pressure gauge first. That way, you won't overinflate your wheel.
Before inflating a tire, always check its pressure with a tire gauge to see how much air it needs. Then connect the hose of the inflator to the tire valve and turn on the device. Do not turn off the unit until the pressure reading is within the manufacturer's recommendations. Unplug the compressor and replace the valve cap.
A tire inflator recharges in multiple ways. If you're using a battery-powered model, simply make sure it's fully charged before putting it in the trunk. For single and dual-cylinder models, you need to activate the motor ahead of time to fill the tank with pressurized air.
The tire inflator is used when a tire is deflated or lacks pressure. However, you can't know in advance when this kind of thing is likely to happen. The best thing to do is to check your tire pressure as often as possible. At the very least, you should do it once a month. When a wheel seems to be low on pressure, add just enough.
The correct pressure is the one recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or tire manufacturer. The ideal pressure is communicated to you in several places. You should have this information on the edge of the door, on the back of the fuel filler flap, in the glove box, or in the car's service book.
Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.
Copyright © 2022 - Made with ♥ by buyingbetter.co.uk
Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!
